System dynamics modelling of spring behaviour in the Orakeikorako geothermal field, New Zealand

System dynamics software STELLA is used to obtain mass and thermal balances of a spring in the Orakeikorako geothermal field, New Zealand, based on field measurements of water level, barometric pressure, rainfall and spring temperature. The model identifies the interactions of the principal influences on spring behaviour of rainfall, groundwater, geothermal steam and barometric pressure. The geothermal steam inflow estimated from the model, of about 0.022 kg/s, confirms the existence of a weak hydraulic connection with a deeper geothermal reservoir. © 2006 CNR. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved